According to Google, the smart lens prototype can "generate a reading once per second" with the chips themselves "so small they look like bits of glitter".

Novartis issued a statement, declaring that the smart lens technology had "the potential to transform eye care".

Under the agreement, Novartis's Alcon eye care unit will further develop and commercialise the smart lens technologies designed by Google[x], the name for Google's development team.

It could be some time before a device such as the smart lens would be ready for general release. Novartis' Chief Executive, Joe Jimenez, reportedly stated that he hoped a product could be on the market in about five years.